Brazil and Morocco Open Group C at the 2026 World Cup in New York. The opening match of Group C at the 2026 World Cup between Brazil and Morocco has kicked off in New York. The encounter sparked excitement among fans and has become one of the most anticipated games of the tournament. Both teams are considered favorites to lead their group.
The first match of Group C at the 2026 FIFA World Cup took place at MetLife Stadium in New York—Brazil faced Morocco. This game immediately drew attention, not only because of the teams’ status, but also due to its unique context: Brazil is a five-time world champion, while Morocco, after its historic semifinal run in Qatar, is regarded as one of Africa’s top contenders.
The stadium was filled predominantly with fans in yellow jerseys: the Brazilian diaspora in the region far outnumbered Moroccan supporters. However, among the guests were people who had come from Marrakesh, Dubai, the UK, and Canada. The New York heat added extra tension, and the atmosphere in the stands resembled that of major American sporting events.
For Brazil, this was their first match on American soil since the 1994 final, when the team triumphed over Italy. Now, the squad is led by Carlo Ancelotti, who faces new challenges with a refreshed lineup that raises questions about depth in midfield and attack. With Neymar once again sidelined by injury, the spotlight shifted to Vinicius Junior, Raphinha, Igor Thiago, and the possible debut of the young Endrick.
Morocco approached the tournament in good shape, having retained its core lineup after their success in Qatar and their victory at the 2026 Africa Cup, despite some technical issues in the final. Brahim Diaz has a chance to redeem himself following an unsuccessful moment in the decisive continental match. A key role in building attacks is played by Neil El Ainaoui, who links the midfield with the flank where Achraf Hakimi operates.
Experts note that Morocco is no longer seen as a surprise sensation, while Brazil is forced to seek new solutions without their usual star. On Fox, there was a discussion on whether Ancelotti’s team can quickly find the right balance, while Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Thierry Henry emphasized the importance of winning the first match for psychological confidence.
MetLife Stadium, which will also host the tournament final, welcomed a World Cup match for the first time. Organizers had hoped for an atmosphere comparable to the Super Bowl, and the group C opener lived up to expectations in terms of spectacle and interest. The winner of the match gains an advantage in the race to advance from the group and a more favorable playoff bracket.
On the same day, another match drew fans’ attention: Switzerland unexpectedly lost to Qatar, which became a topic of discussion in football circles. Similarly, as the USA vs. Paraguay match in Los Angeles became an event for American fans, the Brazil vs. Morocco game set the tone for the entire matchday.
For reference: the 2026 World Cup is being held for the first time with 48 teams, and Africa is represented by a record ten national squads. Morocco became the first African country to reach a World Cup semifinal, and the first to achieve this twice — at both the world and continental levels. MetLife Stadium has already hosted the Club World Cup final and the Super Bowl, and now it is the venue for one of the most anticipated group stage matches.
